The effect of interface friction on the inplane flexibilities of machine tool joints

The effect of interface friction between contact surfaces on the flexibilities of machine-tool joints is studied. The joint flexibility is determined by applying unit load successively at one end of the joint while keeping the other end fixed. Only plane problems have been taken up for consideration. A finite element based numerical procedure is used for solving the problem. Results are presented for the care of a hypothetical machine tool joint and dovetail joint for various values of friction coefficient. It is observed that the decrease in flexibility is only 15% for values of friction coefficient μ = 0.2.